Daughters Remember Code Enforcement Officer Shot, Killed In WVC

WEST VALLEY CITY, Utah – A code enforcement officer shot and killed while on the job last week was remembered Monday as a hard worker who inspired others to chase their dreams, as family members said they were “filled with sorrow” over her death.

“We are heartbroken and we are lost,” daughter Halie Merrill said of the loss of her mom, Jill Robinson.

Robinson was working cases in the area of 4100 Wendy Ave. Thursday, when police said 64-year-old Kevin Wayne Billings shot her and then set her vehicle on fire as well as another house in the neighborhood.

“It was the worst moment of my life,” Merrill said.

Merrill was flanked by her sister, Katie Merrill, and Robinson’s supervisor, West Valley City director of Community Preservation Layne Morris, as they reflected on the code enforcement officer’s life.

“My heart aches for her family,” Morris said. “The West Valley City Code Enforcement division and West Valley residents have lost a friend.”

Morris and Robinson’s daughters remembered her as someone invested in her role.

“She always wanted a position where she could make a difference in the community, and she really loved what she was doing,” Katie Merrill said.

The daughters said they will always remember their mom for her smile and for her ability to be the “light in every room.”

They said she always pushed them to pursue their dreams.

“She encouraged each of us to be what we wanted and do what we wanted,” Katie Merrill said.

Halie Merrill said her mom cared deeply for those around her.

“She was the caregiver — the ultimate caregiver,” Halie Merrill said.

West Valley officials did not provide additional answers related to the investigation, saying it was still active.

Robinson’s funeral is scheduled for Friday at the Maverik Center.